Sunday, April 24, 2005

Harkin on Disability and Social Security Privatization, Redux

Harkin, a longtime advocate for disability rights, said Social Security does not just benefit retirees, but the program also serves as a safety net for the disabled. The average 20-year-old has a 30 percent chance of becoming disabled, according to the Social Security Administration, Harkin said, and disabled citizens unable to work would accrue no benefits from private accounts.

Waylon Stepp, 37, of Marion had a stroke five years ago and now is battling a brain tumor while collecting disability benefits of about $1,600 per month.

"My benefit is enough to keep me from applying for welfare and food stamps," said Stepp, a father of three, who spoke during the forum. "I would be bringing in less per month if the system was privatized. As young people, we don't believe (a disability) is going to happen to us."